Phoenix canariensis

Description and Characteristics

Phoenix canariensis, commonly known as the Canary Island Date Palm, is a majestic and slow-growing palm native to the Canary Islands. Outdoors it can grow into a large, iconic specimen, but when grown indoors, it becomes a bold architectural houseplant, offering tropical elegance, arching fronds, and a striking silhouette.

As an indoor plant, it develops a thick, sturdy trunk (with age) and long, feathery pinnate fronds that arch outward gracefully. Each leaf can grow up to 1–2 metres long in ideal conditions indoors. Its size and form make it a standout feature plant for bright living spaces, conservatories, atriums, or offices.

Though it is not a fast grower indoors, with time and proper care it can develop into a handsome medium- to large-sized palm, often reaching 1.5 to 2.5 metres tall in pots.

• Tropical palm with large feather-like fronds

• Indoor height: up to 2.5 m; Slow-growing

• Long-lived and relatively low maintenance

• Adds a luxurious, exotic feel to interior spaces

• Non-toxic to humans but may have sharp leaf spines

Growing Conditions and Maintenance (Indoors)

Phoenix canariensis performs well indoors when provided with bright light, ample space, and consistent moisture, although it dislikes being overly wet. With the right care, it remains an attractive and healthy focal point for many years.

• Light Requirements:

  • Requires bright, indirect light or full sun indoors

  • Tolerates some direct morning or evening sun

  • Will not thrive in low-light rooms—growth will slow or stall

• Temperature & Humidity:

  • Prefers temperatures between 18–24°C

  • Tolerates occasional dips to 10°C but not cold draughts

  • Adapts to average indoor humidity; occasional misting may help reduce leaf tip browning in dry air

• Soil Preferences:

  • Use a well-draining houseplant compost, ideally with sand or perlite mixed in

  • Avoid heavy or moisture-retentive mixes to prevent root rot

• Watering Needs:

  • Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry

  • Reduce watering in winter, keeping the compost slightly moist

  • Ensure pots have drainage holes and never let the plant sit in water

• Feeding:

  • Feed every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser

  • Do not fertilise in winter when the plant is not actively growing

• Repotting:

  • Repot every 2–3 years, or when root-bound

  • Use a heavy pot to anchor the palm and prevent tipping

• Pruning & Grooming:

  • Remove dead or yellowing fronds at the base with clean secateurs

  • Avoid cutting green fronds—this weakens the plant

  • Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust

Indoor Display, Troubleshooting, and Long-Term Care

With its grand foliage and upright form, Phoenix canariensis works well in minimalist, tropical, or formal interiors. While it's easy to care for, a few key tips can help keep it looking its best.

• Display Suggestions:

  • Use as a corner statement plant, or in large open-plan spaces

  • Ideal for sunrooms, bright lobbies, and rooms with skylights or south-facing windows

  • Pair with large ceramic or terracotta planters for visual impact

• Common Issues:

  • Leaf tip browning: Often caused by dry air or inconsistent watering—mist occasionally or use a humidity tray

  • Yellowing fronds: Usually due to overwatering or poor drainage

  • Pale new growth: May signal nutrient deficiency—increase feeding slightly

• Pest and Disease Resistance:

  • Generally resistant, but may occasionally attract spider mites or mealybugs in dry conditions

  • Treat pests with neem oil or insecticidal soap

  • Ensure good airflow and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues

• Winter Considerations:

  • Keep away from cold windows, radiators, or dry heat vents

  • Water sparingly and do not fertilise from October to February

  • Provide as much light as possible during darker months

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.